Okene killings: IGP insists on probe of fresh lead

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), M.D. Abubakar, has called for a probe following fresh clues available to the police on the killing of Deeper Life Bible Church members in Okene, Kogi State.

It was learnt that the IGP is not yet convinced on a recommendation in the preliminary report that some key suspects, especially former local government chairmen, should be released on bail.

The three major suspects-Yahaya Karaku (ex-Okene LGA chairman), Abubakar Zuberu (ex-Okehi LGA chairman) and Momoh Jimoh, currently detained at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), have initiated legal action to compel the IGP to release them on bail.

The killing of 17 members of the church was carried out on August 6.

Since the killing, police have arrested 18 suspects, including the former council chairmen and a key suspect, Abdulmannan Obadeki, who was arrested in Owo, Ondo State.

Investigation by our correspondent showed that the FCID has submitted a preliminary report, which recommended the release of the former local government chairmen.

The same report identified some fresh clues which require further investigation.

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “The preliminary report was submitted about three weeks ago but the IGP, who is a crack detective, believes that the fresh lead must be probed before any of the suspects can be granted bail.

“As I am talking to you, the IGP is on top of the situation. He wants the investigators to get to the root of the killings.

“It is the view of the IGP and his team that all sides to the case must be probed instead of the team jumping into conclusion that the murder might not have political undertones.

“The antecedent of some of the suspects, especially their involvement in political violence, made the IGP to insist on investigation of fresh clues.

“Some of these investigators have been shuttling between Abuja and Lokoja. The target is to get to the root of the murder.”

Responding to a question, the source said: “The Nigeria Police is not in a hurry to release the former local government chairmen because more information are being gathered on their activities.

“This investigation is not personal, but we have been directed by the IGP to ensure a thorough job.”

Asked if the probe was not taking a long time, the source added: “It pays to do a better job than a sordid one. We are aware of the expectations of the public.”

The police source confirmed that Yahaya Karaku (ex-Okene LGA chairman) and Abubakar Zuberu (ex-Okehi LGA chairman) have asked a High Court to compel the IGP to release them on bail.

But the source said: “The allegations border on criminal matters and investigation is on. In their application in court, they are seeking the enforcement of their fundamental human rights.

“If there is a definite pronouncement or order from the court, the police will honour it. So far, we have not got any at all.”

As at 6.13pm yesterday, police spokesman Frank Mba was yet to pick his calls.